Jared McCain Excited for First NBA Playoff Run

Traded to Oklahoma City Thunder, young player looks forward to postseason debut.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:01am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a basketball player in motion, with their body broken down into sharp, angular geometric shapes in a palette of deep blues, greens, and oranges, conveying the dynamic energy and high stakes of the NBA playoffs.A young NBA player's first taste of the playoffs could be a career-defining moment.Oklahoma City Today

After spending a season and a half with the Philadelphia 76ers, 24-year-old guard Jared McCain was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. While the move came as a surprise, McCain is thrilled to be part of the Thunder's playoff push, expressing his excitement to finally experience the NBA postseason for the first time.

Why it matters

McCain's journey to the playoffs represents an important milestone in the young player's career. The trade to Oklahoma City has given him a new opportunity to showcase his skills on a team with playoff aspirations, which could significantly impact his future prospects in the league.

The details

McCain was a key contributor for the 76ers before the trade, averaging 12.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. His addition to the Thunder roster has bolstered their backcourt depth as they make a push for the playoffs in the Western Conference.

  • Jared McCain was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in mid-March 2026.
  • The 2026 NBA playoffs are set to begin in mid-April 2026.

The players

Jared McCain

A 24-year-old guard who was recently traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Oklahoma City Thunder

An NBA team based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma that is currently in playoff contention in the Western Conference.

Philadelphia 76ers

An NBA team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that Jared McCain played for prior to being traded.

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What they’re saying

“I'm super excited. First of all, I'm proud of finishing the season I'm just grateful to be here. Super excited for playoff basketball. I've watched it all my life, and it's going to be super fun to be a part of.”

— Jared McCain, Oklahoma City Thunder Player

What’s next

The Thunder will look to secure a playoff berth in the final weeks of the regular season, with McCain playing a key role off the bench.

The takeaway

Jared McCain's trade to the Oklahoma City Thunder has provided him with a valuable opportunity to make his first NBA postseason appearance, a significant milestone in the young player's career that could help propel him to new heights in the league.